King holds talks with Bulgarian President

[12/16/2018 2:27:12 PM]

AMMONNEWS - His Majesty King Abdullah II and Bulgarian President, Rumen Radev, on Sunday agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation on economy, trade, investment, education and tourism levels; and to make use of the strategic geographic locations of both countries to enter global markets.

During the meeting held at the Al Husseiniya Palace and attended by her Majesty Queen Rania, the Bulgarian President's wife, and officials from both countries, King Abdullah and President Radev underscored the strong relationship between the two countries.

His majesty welcomed President Radev and said: "This visit constitutes an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the two nations which mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties."

"There is an active Bulgarian community in Jordan," His Majesty said, adding that "I am pleased that you included representatives of several bodies in your government in your delegation so that we can discuss means to strengthen bilateral economic and security cooperation; and ways to enhance trade opportunities and make use of what distinguishes our countries such as the promising youth."

"I know that you want to be briefed on technology and science, and I believe that we can work together." the King said.

King Abdullah explained that "the challenge that we and the international community face is global terrorism, and Jordan and Bulgaria are known for being moderate and tolerant, something that they are proud of. We face regional challenges and you have yours but I am sure that our countries have the same political perspectives."

In turn, the Bulgarian President expressed his delight to visit Jordan and wished to have an opportunity to cooperate on all levels.

He said: "We consider Jordan a vital partner in the Middle East, It represents a beacon of stability and we highly appreciate what you have done through the years to achieve stability. We also laud your balanced stances and policies, which enabled you to deal with surrounding crises."

"All efforts are highly appreciated and respected on our parts in Europe, and your efforts in managing the refugees crisis which we know is very difficult as your country hosts millions of them, something that could put pressure on social, education, and health services. So we in Bulgaria and the European Union are fully committed to support you to achieve stability in the region and we stand together in the war against terror and extremism," Radev added.

He noted that "We are committed to discover tools to develop joint projects that could enter global markets since both countries enjoy great strategic geographical locations. We consider Jordan, thanks to its strategic location and stability, to be a gate to the region's markets. Bulgaria is a gate to the European and non-European markets as well."

"I always look forward to work with you in the future; since we can be partners in the technology sector. Also, education and tourism could constitute another opportunity to develop exceptional ties," he added.

Talks also focused on expanding cooperation in the private sector, and the activation of the Jordanian-Bulgarian Joint Committee for Economic and Trade Cooperation.

It also discussed the investment benefits and opportunities that the Jordanian economy provides and the importance of exchanging expertise in the fields of higher education, research, Information Technology, water, agriculture and energy.

Both leaders underscored the importance of the sustainability of coordination and deliberations between the two countries over myriad regional and international issues to serve the best interests of both nations.

Regarding the peace process between Palestinians and Israelis, King Abdullah stressed the need to intensify international efforts to move forward the peace process based on a two-state solution that would lead to the establishment of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The need for a diplomatic solution to the Syrian conflict that would insure the territorial integrity of Syria was also stressed.

Regional and international efforts on the war against terror within a holistic strategy were also discussed. His Majesty pointed out to the importance of Bulgaria's participation in the Aqaba Meetings.

His Majesty held a banquet in honor of the Bulgarian president and his accompanying delegation.